About Manchester
Shaped by the 19th-century Industrial Revolution, Manchester is a progressive, creative and energetic city with a population of 2.75 million people. Known as the 'capital of the North', Manchester has a thriving economy, four universities, and a vibrant artistic scene.
Manchester is also home to MediaCity, a modern 200-acre property development on the banks of the 19th-century Manchester Ship Canal that celebrates community, creativity and innovation. In 2011, the BBC famously moved several of its departments, including BBC Learning, BBC Sport, and BBC Breakfast to MediaCity from London. The media hub is also home to ITV Studios, ITV Granada, the University of Salford, other media businesses.
So, if you're looking for a location to have your next photoshoot, Manchester might just be the place to make it happen.
Photography Options in Manchester
- Photo Studios
If you're looking for a place to shoot your next project, Manchester is a creative hub, and there are many highly-rated photo studios to choose from. The benefits of working from a photo studio include complete control over your environment, no interruptions, and access to facilities such as toilets, food and drink stations, and air conditioning.
- Photography Equipment Hire
To get the best results possible, you may need to hire equipment. But don't worry, there is a variety of photography equipment hire companies to choose from in Manchester. Whether you require a 4K camera, lenses, lighting, or tripods, hiring equipment will save you precious time and allow you to take high-quality shots.
- Prop Hire
Whether you're doing a fashion campaign, an editorial photoshoot, or product photography, prop hire services enable you to create the perfect shot. You can hire everything from furniture, mannequins, uniforms, musical instruments, and much more. No matter the theme of your shoot, you're sure to find a prop hire company that suits your requirements
- Caterer
If the shoot is likely to take all day and involves a large team of people, you'll need to hire a caterer to give everyone a range of inclusive food and drink options, including vegetarian and vegan meals.
Photography Companies in Manchester
- Wex Photo Video
If you're looking to hire camera equipment, Wex Photo Studio can help. You can rent a wide range of equipment such as cameras, lighting, and other vital accessories that you'll need for your shoot. Additionally, the company offer equipment repair, sensor cleaning and camera set-up services, ensuring your photography equipment is in good condition ready for your shoot.
- Little Book of Objects
There's no need to buy new items for your shoot when you can hire them out instead. Manchester-based Little Book of Objects is a flexible industry supply service that offers objects for use, such as glassware and tableware, and objects for decor such as vases, candlesticks and plant pots.
- Made Catering
Made Catering provide reliable catering services for photoshoots. The company provide food made in-house with the best fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and chefs are trained to make dishes from a range of cuisines for a range of dietary requirements; Made Catering offer something for everyone. Additionally, if you've been let down by another caterer, Made Catering offer emergency catering services to ensure your team don't go hungry.
Pros and Cons of Photoshoots in Manchester
Advantages
- Photo Studios
There are a variety of high-rated photo studios to choose from in Manchester, so you're bound to find an accessible studio that fits your shoot requirements.
- Modelling Agencies
If you're looking for a model to work with for your next shoot, there are several Manchester-based modelling agencies to choose from. Agencies such as Nemesis Models, Boss Agencies and 7even Model Management work with Manchester-based models and can find the right model/s for your next shoot.
- Hotels
If your shoot is likely to take a couple of days, you'll need to find somewhere to stay. Highly-rated hotels such as Hotel Brooklyn, Dakota Manchester, and King Street Townhouse provide your team with a comfortable and accessible place to stay while the shoot is taking place.
Disadvantages
- High Demand
Because Manchester is a creative hub, photo studios are likely to be in high demand. If possible, try to book your shoot well in advance to avoid disappointment. Luckily, there are dozens of photo studios to choose from.
- Noise
If you're shooting at a city-centre location, it can get rather noisy. Moving your shoot to a photo studio will mean your environment is quiet and more controlled, allowing the team to focus on the task at hand.
Famous Locations in Manchester
- Northern Quarter
The Northern Quarter, located between Piccadilly and the Ancoats, is known for its creative and regenerative spirit. The area is loved for its unique bars, restaurants and galleries, which inhabit the intriguing backstreets of the Northern Quarter. If you're a fan of street art, the area is decorated with eye-catching murals; the most impressive murals were created for the Cities of Hope street art festival, which shined a light on nine social justice issues. In 2016, the Northern Quarter was named one of the UK's best alternative tourist attractions - it's not hard to see why.
- The Science and Industry Museum
The Science and Industry Museum celebrates Manchester's innovative past. The museum is home to the world's oldest surviving railway station, dating back to 1830. One of the most popular events in the museum's annual calendar is the Manchester Science Festival, where visitors experience the world of scientific and industrial innovation. Current exhibitions include 14 Scientists Who Shaped Our Lives, Manchester's Rolls-Royce, and the Textiles Gallery.
- The Lowry
Located on the waterfront in MediaCity, the Lowry is a visual and performing arts space offering a diverse programme of theatre, dance, musicals, comedy, and visual arts events, shows and exhibitions. The cultural centre is named after Laurence Stephen Lowry, a revered artist from Salford whose paintings depict Manchester's industrial past. So, after taking in a show or an art exhibition, why not indulge in some retail therapy at the gift shop or have a bite to eat at the Lowry's coffee shop.